Crosswalk marking program improves safety – but pedestrians and motorists have a role in safe crossings

09-Aug-2011

The City of
Saint John is working on improving crosswalk safety with new marking techniques
to prolong the life of crosswalks on City streets. Pedestrians and motorists
also have a role to play in making crosswalks safe for everyone.

The
materials tested at Rothesay Avenue and McAllister Drive, as well as other
locations in the city, are preformed thermoplastic, a reflective plastic that
is heat set on the road surface, and 3M Pavement Marking Tape, a reflective
sticker. The marking tape was used for arrows in turning lanes. The preformed
thermoplastic was used to mark the crosswalks.

“The test
materials have held up well over the past year at an intersection with heavy
truck traffic,” explains Tim O’Reilly, manager of Pedestrian and Traffic
Services. “Council approved $20,000 for more durable markings in 2011, with a
focus on crosswalks.”

Not all
crosswalks in the city are marked. Crosswalks exist at the legs of all
intersections. Crosswalks can also be marked elsewhere on a road with lines and
signage. Motorists must allow pedestrians to cross at all crosswalks, marked or
not. When turning at an intersection, motorists must yield to pedestrians
legally in the crosswalk, even if the motorist has a green light.

Pedestrians
also have responsibilities at crosswalks. Cross only at crosswalks, and signal
that you intend to cross by extending your hand and making eye contact with the
driver. At traffic lights, wait for the Walk sign – a white outline of a person
– before proceeding. Do not cross on a solid or blinking hand. Wear
light-coloured or reflective clothing, particularly when it is dark. Don’t rely
on motorists to pay attention to road markings or signage – motorists must have
time to stop when you intend to cross the street.

For more
information on the crosswalk marking test program or on crosswalk safety, visit
saintjohn.ca/crosswalk or call Municipal Operations at 658-4455.

Media Inquiries

Corporate Communications City of Saint John 11th floor, City Hall (506) 649-6008saintjohn.ca